OverviewSince GMC's Yukon redesign in 2007 and new Hybrid model for 2008, the division continues to add features and content in 2009. These include a new 6-speed automatic transmission mated with 5.3- and 6.0-liter V-8 engines, third-row seat standard on all models, Bluetooth wireless connectivity for hands-free calling, side blind-zone alert system, and new 20-inch wheel design. The Yukon Denali's 6.2-liter, all-aluminum, small-block V-8 engine is flex-fuel capable for 2009. The Yukon Hybrid delivers city mileage that's improved by up to 50 percent with its low-rolling-resistance tires, 6.0-liter V-8 engine with Active Fuel Management cylinder-deactivation technology and Auto Stop mode, and patented GM 2-mode hybrid system. Featuring regenerative braking and a host of technological advances, the Yukon Hybrid with 2-wheel drive (2WD) can tow up to 6200 pounds.

Model LineupThe 2009 GMC Yukon lineup includes the Yukon, Yukon XL, Yukon Denali, and Yukon XL Denali, as well as the Yukon Hybrid. Available in both standard and extended-length models (except for the Hybrid, which is only available in a standard-length version), they are also available in 2WD and 4-wheel drive (4WD). Yukon and Yukon XL models are available in SLE (cloth trim) and SLT (leather appointments). All Yukon models for 2009 have a standard third-row seat. The Yukon Hybrid is only available in one trim level.

The Yukon Hybrid is equipped like its up-level gasoline counterparts, but has some significant changes for 2009. The front fascia has no fog lamp or tow hook openings, and a lower air dam helps redirect air flow from underneath the vehicle, GMC says. Other changes include wheel openings and other areas with aero tuning details; larger front grille opening; roof rack side rails that have been eliminated to reduce drag; tapered standard running boards; all-new aerodynamically optimized rear fascia; extended rear spoiler; and aero-shaped rear brake lamps. An aluminum hood and liftgate (with fixed glass) replace standard steel units on the Yukon Hybrid. Lighter-weight front seats add 1.5 inches of second-row passenger knee room. A tire inflator kit takes the place of the spare wheel and tire, hoist mechanism, jack and tools on the gas-only models. Hybrid models have low-rolling-resistance, "quiet-tuned" P265/65R18 tires and 18-inch aluminum Ultra Bright wheels.

PowertrainThe versatile 2009 GMC Yukon lineup is powered by a family of four 8-cylinder engines. A Vortec 4.8-liter V-8 engine is standard on the 2WD base Yukon model, and produces 295 hp at 5600 rpm and 305 lb.-ft. of torque at 4600 rpm and 335 lb.-ft. of torque at 4400 rpm. A flex-fuel version of this engine that runs on E85 ethanol or gasoline (or any combination thereof) is standard on 4WD models and optional on 2WD models. Standard on all models except base Yukon 2WD is the iron-block Vortec 5.3-liter V-8 engine with Active Fuel Management cylinder-deactivation technology that makes 310 hp at 5200 rpm and 340 lb.-ft. of torque. An all-aluminum Vortec 6.0-liter V-8 engine with variable valve timing (VVT) is available on Yukon XL models, delivering 352 hp at 5400 rpm and 382 lb.-ft. of torque at 4200 rpm. The Yukon Denali and Yukon XL Denali are powered by a 6.2-liter V-8 engine rated at 403 hp at 5700 rpm and 417 lb.-ft. of torque at 4300 rpm. New for 2009, this engine is flex-fuel-enabled. Yukon engines are matched to 4-speed and 6-speed automatic transmissions, including a new Hydra-Matic 6L80 6-speed automatic with two overdrive gears mated with models powered by 5.3- and 6.0-liter engines and the 6.2-liter engine in the Denali.

EPA-estimated fuel economy for the 2WD and 4WD 5.3-liter V-8 with 6-speed automatic are 14 mpg city/20 mpg highway (gasoline), and 10 mpg city/15 mpg highway on E85. An XFE model with this engine, due in the fourth quarter of 2008, will boost fuel economy by 1 mpg to 15 mpg city/21 mpg highway, due to changes that include extending the front lower air dam, lowering the suspension and revising chassis tuning. The 6.0-liter V-8 engine in the Hybrid gets an estimated 21 mpg city/22 mpg highway (2WD) and 20 mpg city/20 mpg highway (4WD). EPA estimates for the 6.2-liter V-8 engine are 12 mpg city/19 mpg highway (gasoline) and 10 mpg city/14 mpg highway (E85) in 2WD. In 4WD, the gasoline numbers are the same, while E85 estimates are 9 mpg city/14 mpg highway.

Four-wheel disc brakes with Bosch 8.0 next-generation 4-channel anti-lock control (ABS) is standard, and works along with the standard electronic stability control system with traction control. GM's Autoride real-time damping system is available on the Yukon (standard on Denali). Using electronically controlled shock absorbers, the system delivers near-instantaneous damping adjustments, according to the company. A fuel-saving 3.08 axle is available on 2WD models with the 5.3-liter V-8 engine. Yukon models have an integrated brake controller, and heavy-duty trailering is available.

SafetyFor 2009, the GMC Yukon family includes numerous standard or optional safety features. Standard safety equipment includes dual-stage front air bags with passenger-sensing system; head curtain side air bags for all seatin